Concerns are growing over the United Nations-led cross-border assistance agreement in Syria, specifically regarding the Bab al Hawa crossing. The agreement, previously authorized by the Security Council, is set to expire in February 2024, which has raised significant worries about the ability of humanitarian organizations, particularly Syrian NGOs, to effectively operate in the region.
The International Rescue Committee notes that the removal of certainty and security that came with the Security Council authorization will have a direct impact on the ability of humanitarian organizations to assist those in need. With the expiration of the agreement at the height of the next winter season, the concerns heighten further as the predictability becomes questionable.
The main issue lies in the six-month duration of the agreement, which poses critical challenges for hiring and retaining staff, procuring supplies, and delivering services. Such tasks require a longer time frame guarantee to ensure proper implementation. The extension of the agreement for two additional crossings, initially opened to support the earthquake response for only three months, offers little additional security.
The International Rescue Committee urges the United Nations to continue engaging with all parties involved in the Syrian conflict to ensure an independent, impartial, and neutral humanitarian response that aligns with the region’s needs. Throughout the Syrian conflict, humanitarian assistance has been manipulated and used as a tool, making the Security Council resolution an important guarantee for communities in the northwest to receive much-needed support from the international community.
As humanitarian needs within Syria reach an all-time high, unimpeded access to communities in need remains of paramount importance. The International Rescue Committee has consistently called for a 12-month authorization of cross-border assistance by the UN Security Council to ensure a steady flow of aid and resources to the northwest, addressing both the predictability and scale required for effective humanitarian efforts.
Looking ahead, it is crucial for the UN and the international community to work together in securing a long-term, sustainable, and principled humanitarian response in the northwest of Syria. The responsibility falls on the Security Council to protect Syrians wherever they are, ensuring their lives are not put at risk. Balancing the interests and perspectives of all parties involved is essential in achieving a comprehensive solution.
In conclusion, concerns are heightening as the expiration of the UN-led cross-border assistance agreement in Syria approaches. The six-month duration of the agreement poses challenges for humanitarian organizations, impacting their ability to operate effectively in the region. The International Rescue Committee emphasizes the need for a long-term, sustainable approach that guarantees the flow of aid and resources to the northwest. The international community must work together to ensure the protection of Syrians and the timely delivery of lifesaving assistance. The situation calls for a balanced response that considers the needs and interests of all parties involved.
